Anyone headed for the Outlets at Anthem will need to enter a new name into their GPS system because the landmark outdoor shopping center is changing its name to Outlets North Phoenix. The name change is in response to the explosive growth in the northern reaches of the Phoenix city limits and increased shopper demand.
“As anyone who lives in the area knows, growth in the North Phoenix area has been tremendous, especially the last five years,” said Steve Craig, property developer and owner of Craig Realty Group, which owns and operates Outlets at Anthem. “When we first acquired the property, it was named Outlets at New River and was a tourist destination for those traveling along the I-17, including those looking into the master planned community of Anthem. We’ve evolved over the years to be the preferred shopping center for the northern boundaries of Phoenix and as the north valley has evolved, we’re now changing our name to reflect that.”
The center was renamed Outlets at Anthem in 2002 as an outdoor open-air, family and pet-friendly destination. It was a popular place to shop for deals at designer retailers and a must-stop location for Valley residents heading north to Flagstaff or heading back to the Valley. It even advertised its sparkling clean, air-conditioned bathrooms for road-weary travelers.
In 2002, the shopping center staked its claim as a festive destination during the holidays featuring the state’s largest Christmas tree. For more than 20 years, families from all over the Valley flocked to the Outlets at Anthem for a healthy dose of the Christmas spirit.
“The new name and signage are a natural progression of any business willing and able to adapt to the growing needs of its community,” said JoAnn Truax, director of real estate operations and marketing, Craig Realty Group. “We’re happy to always be the place to save on designer brands, but we are excited to also become a place for shoppers’ services and entertainment.”
The retail development team is always working to bring the Valley’s favorite local and national retailers to Outlets North Phoenix. Blind Bear, which sells Hunter Douglas window coverings, recently opened a location and another new retailer, to be announced soon, is scheduled to open in June.